What about Uganda? Why you really don't always need protection for your invention everywhere

There are no less than 17.2 million valid patents worldwide. But what is striking is that 91% of those patents have been granted by just five agencies: the Chinese, American, Japanese, South Korean, and European patent offices. This raises an important question for entrepreneurs: where should you actually protect your invention? Do you really need to operate everywhere, or can you be smarter and more selective?

Focus on the heavyweights

The real heavyweights in the world of patents are China, the U.S., and Europe. These regions not only offer the most significant markets but are also leaders in innovation and technology. This is where you will most likely find customers, partners, and investors. Moreover, infringement of your patent in these regions is likely to have the greatest impact on your business.

Japan and South Korea deserve attention if you have specific customers or partners in those countries, or if you find that your competitors are active there. In the semicon sector, for example, this is likely. Still, for many companies, it makes sense to include these markets later in the strategy, depending on the opportunities and risks that arise.

What do you do with smaller markets?

But what if you notice a competitor operating in a smaller market, such as Uganda? Or if an important partner wants to apply your technology there? In that case, extending your patent strategy to that specific country is wise. That way, you can address infringement at its source or establish a valuable partnership by licensing.

It is essential to realize that patents in smaller markets often serve a strategic purpose. You don't have to have an immediate presence everywhere. Instead, add countries to your patent coverage when it becomes relevant. This keeps your costs manageable and allows you to continue to focus resources on the markets that really matter.

An orderly and efficient approach

A successful patent strategy is all about balance. The goal is to adequately protect yourself without incurring unnecessary costs. Here are three tips to keep your strategy clear and efficient:

1. Start with the major markets - Focus first on the regions that are most important to your company: China, the U.S., and Europe. Here lies the most potential as well as the most significant risk of infringement.
2. Expand when necessary - Add other countries to your patent coverage if you have important customers, partners, or competitors. Let your strategy move with your growth.
3. Be flexible - Patents are not static tools. Review your strategy regularly and adjust it based on new market opportunities and threats. Or as a result of your developments.

Controllable costs

You really don't have to patent everything to be successful. With a smart and flexible approach, you focus first on the markets that are really important, while adding additional countries as the situation demands. This keeps your costs manageable, your strategy efficient and your opportunities great.

By deliberately designing your patent strategy, you not only protect your innovation, but also create new opportunities for growth and collaboration. Whether in China, the US, or even Uganda, a well-protected innovation makes all the difference.